Board members divided in their responses on fairness of process | Manawatu-Wanganui News | Local News in Manawatu-Wanganui

The allegations surrounding the tender process for the Te Awhina contract have prompted board chairwoman Kate Joblin to email board members for their views.

Given these events unfolded over the Christmas-New Year period, not all members replied.

In an email on December 22, Philippa Baker-Hogan said she was satisfied the process "has been robust". However, she "would not be against a review by the OAG [Office of the Auditor-General] if that was appropriate and free".

Nancy Tuaine was happy to let "our process do its job".

Ray Stevens said: "There is enough doubt for me to go to the next stage. The $10,000 cost is minor compared to the integrity of our process ... I cannot or will not accept the current recommendation from the chief executive." Clive Solomon agreed.

Judith MacDonald said: "If the quality of the three lead tenders was comparable, why then was a decision made not to go with the lowest price, given the fiscal strain in the health sector?" She supported a post-tender interview with the companies.

David Warburton said it was not unusual to receive this type of complaint when tenders were awarded and that the 60/40 split in quality/price evaluation was common.